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Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Trade) General Engineering

Gain the technical and problem solving skills needed to work in mechanical engineering environments.

On this programme you'll learn: how to interpret drawings and/or specifications; how to select and use the appropriate materials, tools, equipment and processes for the mechanical engineering task being undertaken; how to work safely and meet workplace health and safety requirements.

Part-time up to 6 years.

Please note: this programme is FEES-FREE for domestic students until 31 December 2022. Find out more >

40 credits NCEA Level 1, including 10 literacy credits and 10 numeracy credits

OR New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Level 3)

If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.

In addition you need to:

Be employed in the mechanical engineering industry at time of study. Enter into a 3-way training agreement between the candidate, employer and Ara.

Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?

If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.

Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.

What if English is not my first Language?

If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.

  • Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
  • If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
  • If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
  • IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
  • What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
  • You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.

Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic

  • 5.0 Listening
  • 5.0 Reading
  • 5.0 Writing
  • 5.0 Speaking

Funding assistance

If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.

Find out more

Career opportunities

This programme is delivered by Ara to people employed in the engineering and manufacturing industry in an Ara managed apprenticeship. Completion of this qualification gives you the skills to take on more responsibility within engineering and manufacturing businesses. You could become a supervisor or foreman or even set up your own business.

Study pathways

This qualification can lead to the New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Advanced) (Level 5).

Recommended school subjects

  • English
  • Maths
  • Technology

New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Trade) General Engineering Strand

PART-TIME - 4 Years

Gain the technical and problem solving skills needed to work in mechanical engineering environments.

Information
Type Certificate
Code NZ2714
Credits 280
Level 4
May be eligible for Studylink? Yes
Available Part time Yes
May be eligible for Fees Free? Yes
Reference NZ2714-GENE

Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme. You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid-19 vaccination status to apply for this programme, but please be aware that some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated from COVID-19 before allowing you to complete work at their organisation.

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With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…

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Additional Entry Requirements

In addition you need to:

Be employed in the mechanical engineering industry at time of study. Enter into a 3-way training agreement between the candidate, employer and Ara.

See overview for more

Credit Recognition

If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.

Find out more

Documents

Area of Interest

Key Information for Students

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